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The Taurus 608, manufactured by Taurus International, is a powerful revolver chambered in .357 Magnum. Released in the late 1990s, this handgun is known for its 8-round capacity, durable stainless steel construction, and versatility in both self-defense and recreational shooting. Many shooters appreciate the Taurus 608 for its robust design and impressive firepower, making it a popular choice for those seeking reliability and stopping power.
However, like any firearm, the Taurus 608 isn’t without its challenges. Despite being a solid performer, it does come with a few issues that can impact its performance. Read on to discover the most common Taurus 608 problems and, more importantly, how to solve them. By the end, you'll have a clearer picture of whether the Taurus 608 is the right handgun for you.
Meet Taurus 608: Main Specs & Problems Outlined
The Taurus 608, featuring a 4-inch barrel and chambered in .357 Magnum, is a robust revolver designed for both self-defense and recreational shooting. With its 8-round cylinder, the 608 offers impressive capacity for a revolver, which is rare in its class. Constructed from stainless steel, the Taurus 608 is highly durable, and its adjustable rear and fixed front sights provide reliable accuracy for mid-range shooting. This Taurus handgun is particularly known for its powerful performance and rugged build, making it an excellent choice for those seeking reliability and firepower.
Looking to dive deeper into the Taurus 608's features? Check out our detailed Taurus 608 review to see why this revolver stands out in its class.
That being said, I’ve experienced a few common problems with the Taurus 608 that you might want to be aware of. In the following sections, I’ll discuss the revolver’s heavy trigger pull, issues with cylinder rotation, timing problems, and the occasional misfire with certain types of ammunition. Alright, without further ado, let’s take a detailed look at the most troublesome Taurus 608 issues and how they can be easily solved.
Taurus 608 Problems: Taurus 608 heavy trigger pull issue and how to fix it
One of the most commonly reported issues with the Taurus 608 is its heavy trigger pull, particularly in double-action mode. While the single-action trigger pull is relatively light, averaging around 4 pounds, the double-action pull can be noticeably heavier, often reaching up to 12 pounds. This can lead to fatigue during extended shooting sessions and may affect accuracy, especially for those who aren't used to handling revolvers with a heavier trigger.
From my own experience with the Taurus 608, the heavy trigger pull can make rapid firing more challenging, and some shooters might find it difficult to maintain precision, particularly in defensive situations where quick shots are necessary.
How to solve Taurus 608 heavy trigger pull problem
To solve the heavy trigger pull issue on the Taurus 608, one of the most effective solutions is to have a professional gunsmith perform a trigger job. This typically involves polishing internal components and possibly replacing springs to reduce the resistance and make the trigger smoother. For those looking for a DIY solution, swapping out the factory springs for lighter ones, such as those from Wolff Gunsprings, can significantly reduce the trigger pull weight.
Another common approach is to practice dry-firing to break in the trigger mechanism, which can naturally smooth out the pull over time. However, it's important to ensure that your revolver is rated for dry-firing or use snap caps to avoid damage to the firing pin. For more thoughts on the Taurus 608 revolver, refer to this helpful Reddit thread.
Taurus 608 Problems: Taurus 608 cylinder rotation issue and how to fix it
Another common issue with the Taurus 608 is related to cylinder rotation. Some users report that the cylinder occasionally fails to rotate smoothly when firing in double-action mode, which can cause misalignment and prevent the next round from chambering properly. This issue is often linked to timing problems within the revolver's internal mechanism, where the hand that rotates the cylinder doesn't fully engage, or wear on the ratchet can affect smooth operation.
In my experience, this problem can be more noticeable after prolonged use, as the components inside the revolver start to wear down. This can lead to inconsistent rotation, making it difficult to fire subsequent rounds, especially in quick succession.
How to solve Taurus 608 cylinder rotation problem
To solve the Taurus 608 cylinder rotation issue, the most reliable fix is to have a gunsmith inspect and adjust the revolver’s timing. The problem often arises due to wear on the internal parts responsible for rotating the cylinder, such as the hand or ratchet. A gunsmith can replace these worn parts or adjust them to ensure the cylinder rotates smoothly and aligns properly with the barrel during firing.
For minor issues, cleaning and lubricating the revolver’s cylinder assembly can sometimes help, especially if dirt or debris is causing friction and hindering rotation. Regular maintenance can also prevent this problem from worsening over time.
Taurus 608 Problems: Taurus 608 occasional misfires issue and how to fix it
A notable issue with the Taurus 608 is occasional misfires when using certain types of ammunition. This problem is typically linked to light primer strikes, where the firing pin doesn’t hit the primer hard enough to ignite the round. Some users have reported that the revolver misfires more frequently with certain brands of ammo, particularly those with harder primers.
In my experience, this issue can be frustrating, especially when shooting in rapid succession or during defensive situations. The problem seems to occur more often when using cheaper or reload ammunition, which might have inconsistent primer hardness or quality.
How to solve Taurus 608 occasional misfires problem
To solve the occasional misfires in the Taurus 608, one of the most effective solutions is to ensure you’re using high-quality ammunition with softer primers. Ammunition brands like Federal are known for having more sensitive primers, which can reduce the occurrence of light primer strikes.
Another option is to have a gunsmith inspect the firing pin and hammer spring tension. If the spring is weak, replacing it with a stronger aftermarket spring can increase the force of the primer strike, resolving the misfire issue. For those experiencing persistent problems, polishing the firing pin or replacing it with a more reliable aftermarket option can also help improve ignition consistency.
Taurus 608 Problems: Choosing the right Taurus 942 holster
Choosing the right Taurus 608 holster is essential for ensuring both comfort and quick access to your revolver. The Taurus 608 is a relatively large handgun with a 4-inch barrel, so selecting a holster that fits its size and weight is critical. When shopping for Taurus 608 holsters, you need to consider your intended use. If you plan to carry it for self-defense, an inside-the-waistband (IWB) holster might offer better concealment. For range use or open carry, an outside-the-waistband (OWB) holster provides easier access and comfort.
Other factors to keep in mind include your experience level, preferred carry style (e.g., strong side or cross draw), and the materials used in the holster. Leather and kydex are popular options, with leather offering more comfort and kydex providing better retention. Be sure to choose a holster that provides a secure fit and allows for a smooth draw.
Best Taurus 608 holsters by Craft Holsters
When it comes to finding the best Taurus 608 holster, Craft Holsters stands out as the top choice for several reasons. Each holster for Taurus 608 is crafted with a custom fit, ensuring your revolver is securely held while allowing for a quick draw. Their holsters are made from premium leather, offering both durability and comfort at a reasonable price. With excellent retention and high-quality craftsmanship, Craft Holsters provides the perfect balance between performance and style.
For concealed carry, the Taurus 608 IWB Holster with Steel Clip is a top choice. It offers a snug fit inside the waistband, ensuring comfort while providing easy access for a fast draw.
For open carry, the Taurus 608 Open Top Belt Holster is ideal, offering quick access and comfort during long hours of wear. Both options are designed with custom fit in mind, making Craft Holsters the best place to find a reliable and well-made holster for your Taurus 608.
Conclusion - Should I buy Taurus 608 despite its problems?
Despite a few troublesome issues like the heavy trigger pull, cylinder rotation problems, and occasional misfires, the Taurus 608 remains a solid revolver choice for those seeking power and reliability. Now that you know how to fix these problems, each issue can be effectively addressed, making it more of a maintenance task than a deal-breaker. Additionally, choosing the right Taurus 608 holster is essential for ensuring both comfort and accessibility, whether you’re carrying for self-defense or using it at the range.
The Taurus 608 is an excellent choice for experienced shooters who want a revolver for home defense or recreational shooting. However, if you're new to firearms or looking for something lighter for everyday carry, this might not be the best option due to its weight and size. Overall, the Taurus 608 can be a great investment if you're prepared to address its minor quirks.
